Submission is a concept that can be challenging to navigate, especially in the context of relationships. The Bible provides guidance on submission, emphasizing its importance in maintaining harmony and respect within relationships. Here are 12 Bible verses about submission that can help foster better relationships:
Ephesians 5:21 - “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” This verse highlights the mutual respect and submission that should exist in all relationships, especially among believers, as a way of honoring Christ.
Colossians 3:18-19 - “Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” These verses emphasize the importance of mutual submission and love in marriage, noting that wives should submit to their husbands and husbands should love and not be harsh with their wives.
1 Peter 3:1-6 - “Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves. They submitted themselves to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.” This passage provides a comprehensive view of submission in marriage, emphasizing the inner beauty and respectful behavior of wives towards their husbands.
Romans 13:1-2 - “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” This verse teaches submission to authorities, as they are established by God, which can extend to submission in various relationships where authority is present.
1 Corinthians 16:15-16 - “You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people. I urge you, brothers and sisters, to submit to such as these and to everyone who joins in the work and labors at it.” This passage encourages believers to submit to those who serve and work for the Lord, highlighting the importance of respecting and following the leadership of those who are dedicated to serving God and His people.
Hebrews 13:17 - “Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.” This verse emphasizes the importance of submitting to spiritual leaders, as they are responsible for watching over the believers and will give an account to God.
Titus 3:1-2 - “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.” This passage encourages submission to authorities and being peaceable and considerate towards everyone, promoting a lifestyle of obedience and kindness.
1 Peter 2:13-14 - “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.” This verse teaches submission to all human authorities as a way of honoring God, recognizing the role of government in maintaining order and rewarding good behavior.
Ephesians 6:5-8 - “Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.” This passage provides guidance on submission in the context of work, encouraging believers to serve their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as if they were serving Christ.
Colossians 3:22-25 - “Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for human masters, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You serve the Lord Christ. For the wrongdoer will be paid back for the wrong he has done, and there is no favoritism.” Similar to the previous verse, this passage emphasizes serving earthly masters with sincerity and reverence for the Lord, knowing that the ultimate reward comes from Him.
Proverbs 24:21-22 - “Fear the Lord and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials, for those two will send sudden destruction on them, and who knows what calamities they can bring?” This proverb highlights the importance of fearing and respecting both God and human authorities, warning against joining with those who rebel against them.
James 4:7 - “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” This verse encourages believers to submit to God and resist the devil, emphasizing the spiritual aspect of submission and the importance of aligning oneself with God’s will to overcome evil.
In conclusion, submission according to the Bible is not about one party dominating another but about mutual respect, love, and the recognition of authority as established by God. It promotes harmony, respect, and a deeper understanding of one’s role within relationships, whether marital, societal, or spiritual. By applying these principles, individuals can foster better, more respectful relationships that honor God and promote peace and understanding among all parties involved.
What does submission mean in the context of Bible verses about relationships?
+In the context of Bible verses about relationships, submission refers to the act of yielding to another’s authority or guidance out of respect, love, and obedience to God. It’s about recognizing the roles and responsibilities within relationships and honoring God through mutual submission and respect.
How does mutual submission apply in a marital relationship according to the Bible?
+Mutual submission in a marital relationship, as suggested by Ephesians 5:21, involves both spouses submitting to each other out of reverence for Christ. This means that each partner prioritizes the other’s needs, desires, and well-being, creating a relationship built on love, respect, and a deep commitment to one another and to God.
What role does respect play in biblical submission within relationships?
+Respect is a foundational element of biblical submission. It involves valuing and honoring the other person, whether in a marital, parental, or authoritative relationship. Respect is what motivates individuals to submit to one another and to authority, recognizing the importance of these relationships in God’s plan.
